Moanalua Golf Club

Moanalua Golf Club holds the distinction of being the oldest golf course in Hawai‘i, established in 1898 by businessman Samuel Mills Damon. Originally a full 18-hole course, it was reconfigured to a nine-hole layout in 1908 and continues to serve as a key piece of Hawai‘i’s golf history. Designed by Scottish architect Donald MacIntyre, the course blends tradition with accessibility, offering public play after 10 AM daily, while members enjoy early tee time access and full use of the clubhouse and dining facilities.

The nine-hole, par-36 course plays 2,972 yards from the longest tees, with Bermuda grass fairways and greens and an emphasis on accuracy over distance. The layout features small greens averaging 3,000 square feet, sloped terrain, and the Moanalua Stream, which comes into play on multiple holes. Trade winds add another layer of complexity, often shifting throughout a round. Despite its compact footprint, the course provides a surprisingly varied test, with out-of-bounds areas and water hazards that reward careful shot selection.
One of the most historically unique aspects of Moanalua is its third fairway, which once doubled as a polo field and even a landing strip—reportedly used by Amelia Earhart during a visit to Hawai‘i. With its blend of history, location, and walkable layout, Moanalua Golf Club offers a memorable round for players looking to connect with the roots of the game in the islands.